Kent County, MI—Two snowmobilers were killed in an accident in which the snowmobile they were riding on slammed into a tree on Sunday, January 10, 2010 in Lowell Township, reports WZZM13.com, ABC News affiliate.

The snowmobilers, 39-year-old William Robert Hanchett, Jr. and 19-year-old Kristin Stowie, were reportedly riding the sled at approximately 2:30 a.m. on Timpson Road. Hanchett was driving the snowmobile when allegedly veered off the roadway and struck a tree. Both riders were pronounced dead at the scene of the tragic snowmobile wreck. Deputies from the Kent County Sheriff’s Office allegedly reported that Hanchett was drinking prior to the incident.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) reported that there have been a total of nine snowmobile-related fatalities from December 11, 2009 to January 3, 2010. This number allegedly does not mean that there has been an “upward trend in fatalities”, according to a spokesperson for the DNR. Statistics provided by the DNR allegedly state that sine the 2005-06 winter there have been 20 to 24 reported snowmobile-related deaths in Michigan.

Snowmobilers are being urged by the Department of Natural Resources, as well as police officials, to use caution when riding the sleds in icy and snowy conditions, and to make sure snowmobiles are working properly before using them. Riders are also advised to “wear reflective clothing and carry a light in case a headlight burns out”. Snowmobile classes have been highly recommended as well.